definite break

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "definite break" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a clear or distinct separation or pause in a process, activity, or situation. Example: "After a long period of continuous work, I decided to take a definite break to recharge my energy."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

Wesley's ordinations set an important precedent for the Methodist church, but the definite break with the Church of England came in 1795, four years after his death.

Encyclopedia Britannica

It meant a challenge to the vested interests of the mind, mainly theological, that were entrenched in the colleges and universities of the United States; and it meant a definite break with what Santayana called "the genteel tradition".

Encyclopedia Britannica

"This is a definite break from what I would consider normal behavior for North Carolina," said David French, 27, who is looking for a job in industrial design here in rural Rockingham County.

The New York Times

U type curves are those curves where rising limb has a nearly uniform slope, but the recession limb shows a definite break in the slope.

Applied Water Science

And by then we had a dog, the most marvelous lesson of all in caring and affection, but a definite break down in the purity of air and cleanliness of couches.

Huffington Post

The median duration of the interruption because of persistent leukocytopenia was 6 days (1 13 days) after a definite break.

British Journal of Cancer

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

According to OMERACT criteria [ 22], erosions on CT were defined as a definite cortical break seen in two planes, with a cortical break (loss of cortex) seen in at least one plane.

BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders

The Lesser Himalayas and the Sub-Himalayas are situated in the eastern part of the province and form definite ranges broken by hilly country and small plains.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The Tea Party-ists are having so many internal fights that there's a definite danger of broken crockery.

The New York Times

Not definitive, just definite.

The New York Times

And, by emphasizing that figural interpretation "had grown out of a definite historical situation, the Christian break with Judaism and the Christian mission among the Gentiles," he tacitly linked that break with the Nazis' attempt to despoil Jewish law and theology.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "definite break" to clearly indicate a distinct and recognizable pause or separation in a process, relationship, or activity. It's stronger than a simple "break".

Common error

While grammatically sound, "definite break" can sound overly formal in casual conversation. Consider simpler alternatives like "clear break" or "distinct pause" when speaking with friends or family.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "definite break" functions as a noun phrase, where "definite" modifies the noun "break". It describes a specific type of interruption or separation, indicating clarity and certainty. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

43%

Science

29%

Encyclopedias

14%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "definite break" is a grammatically sound and usable phrase that describes a clear and distinct separation or interruption. While considered uncommon in frequency, it appears in reputable sources such as The New York Times and Encyclopedia Britannica. Its primary contexts are in News & Media, Science, and Encyclopedias. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is correct, and it is best used to emphasize the certainty of a pause or separation. When using "definite break", consider your audience and context, opting for simpler alternatives in casual conversations to avoid sounding overly formal. You can replace "definite break" with alternatives such as "definitive separation" or "clear break" based on your desired level of formality.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

definitive separation

Stresses the finality and completeness of the break, leaving no room for ambiguity or uncertainty.

distinct interruption

Focuses on the act of stopping something temporarily or permanently in a way that is easily noticeable.

decisive split

Highlights the conclusive nature of the separation, implying a firm and resolute decision.

marked discontinuity

Emphasizes an interruption in a continuous series or sequence that is easily observed or measured.

clear severance

Emphasizes a complete and unambiguous separation, often in a formal or legal context.

sharp division

Indicates a clear and well-defined boundary or distinction between two things.

unmistakable rupture

Suggests a sudden and forceful break, often with negative consequences or strong emotions.

absolute cessation

Conveys a complete and irreversible stop to an activity or process.

pronounced gap

Highlights a significant difference or interval that is clearly visible or apparent.

categorical termination

Implies a complete and unconditional ending, leaving no possibility of continuation.

FAQs

How can I use "definite break" in a sentence?

You can use "definite break" to describe a clear pause or separation. For example, "There was a "definite break" in the negotiations, leading to further delays."

What's a more formal way to say "definite break"?

For a more formal tone, consider using phrases like "definitive separation" or "categorical termination", depending on the context.

What can I say instead of "definite break" in a casual conversation?

In casual settings, you might opt for alternatives such as "clear break" or "distinct pause", which are less formal.

Is there a difference between a "definite break" and a "temporary pause"?

Yes, a "definite break" suggests a more significant or possibly permanent interruption, while a "temporary pause" implies a planned and short-term cessation. Consider "prolonged pause" instead of temporary pause.